THE Mansfield Musical and Dramatic Society (MMuDS) wowed audiences last weekend, showcasing local talent after a 10 day youth summer drama camp.

The camp hosted 32 young people and five trainers who worked on two plays – 'Love' and 'If Only The Lonley' – both by Australian playwright Finegan Kruckemeyer.

Mansfield Shire Council helped make the project possible with a $5000 grant, along with the Bushfire Recovery Fund's contribution of $75,000 and MMuDS's contribution of $5000 made sure the camp went ahead.

The camp was coordinated in partnership with the Victorian Drama League and Theatrecraft Youth Unlimited (TYL).

MMuDS committee member Karen Pirie explained that the theatre group had been supporting local children who attended TYL camps in the Gippsland region with overwhelming positive responses.

"The children would come back energised and their parents would tell us that their confidence had increased significantly too," she said.

MMuDS approached TYL and was given approval to host a camp, however COVID–19 stalled plans.

"We put in an ambitious application to the Bushfire Recovery Fund – for $75,000, using reviews from parents and recommendations from council and the secondary school," Ms Pirie said.

"MMuDS were able to offer the camp at quite a discounted rate thanks to the Bushfire Recovery Fund which gave children who may not have been able to afford it the chance to get involved."

On the 10 day camp, students were given opportunities to expand their skills and learn new techniques with direction from MMuDS members and trainers from around Victoria.

Students were able to work collaboratively on the plays, assisting each other in learning lines and interpreting the scripts.

Each student also got a chance to play a character, building their confidence in a supportive environment.

Ms Pirie explained, "It's not just about putting on a show; it's about making friendships and connections with others.

Half the students were from the local area, with others coming from all across the state.

"MMuDS has been very keen to bring in people from outside the local area to share their expertise and experience with young performers in Mansfield."